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By Latrishka Thomas
The thunderous roar that erupted from Carnival City Friday night wasn’t just applause—it was the sound of a cultural awakening.
At just 19 years old, Ge’Eve Phillip transformed from calypso prodigy to sovereign, her soul-stirring rendition of “Daughter Come” not merely winning the 2025 Calypso Monarch crown, but igniting a cultural awakening that left seasoned veterans and first-time spectators alike with goosebumps.
The young calypsonian, who has dominated the junior calypso circuit with 11 Junior Monarch titles, dethroned defending champion Leston “King Young Destroyer” Jacobs in her third attempt in the senior competition, proving that age is no barrier to mastering the art of calypso.
Ge’Eve’s winning performance of “Daughter Come”, composed by Christophe Grant, was nothing short of spectacular. The newly crowned monarch filled the stage with vibrant exhibitions of Antigua’s history and culture, leaving spectators visibly moved by her commanding presence and cultural authenticity.
Members of the audience reported getting “chills” and Ge’Eve left the stage noticeably emotional herself after delivering what can be described as a show-stopping performance. The thunderous screams from the crowd made it clear she was destined for the winner’s circle.
Speaking to media moments after being crowned, the composed young champion shared her genuine reaction: “It was a very good feeling, to be honest. I’ve been trying for the past three years and I’m really glad that the judges saw my potential and decided to reward me this year.”
Ge’Eve revealed how she became one with the song on stage. “This song highlights the roots of our culture and throughout my entire preparations of this performance I went through different courses where I got to understand what the song really meant,” she explained.
“My goal was to come out here and show the folks that Calypso is not just a genre of music; it’s our roots, it’s our background and it’s something that we should give our full support and appreciation,” she added.
The competition featured 13 talented finalists, each bringing their unique style and message to the Carnival City stage and making the judges decision difficult. Tian Winter secured first runner-up position with his performance of “Glass House” composed by Jamaal Miller, Tian Winter & Neil Cochrane.
Winter faced technical difficulties when his microphone cut out during his initial performance, but the judges allowed him to restart immediately — a decision that delighted the crowd who enthusiastically supported seeing him perform twice.
King Young Destroyer, the defending champion, finished as second runner-up with “Enemy of the State” by Ogliver Jacobs. Despite some controversy over political commentary that rubbed some people the wrong way with jabs at the opposition, his performance quality remained undeniably strong.
The evening showcased the breadth of calypso talent, from seasoned veterans to promising newcomers. Keontae Willock, performing as Kid Fresh, had the crowd in stitches with his humorous debut performance of “Tanty”.
Ruez Titre, the youngest competitor, proved he could hold his own among veterans with his performance of “Capable”, while Raffique ‘Lyrical Reds’ Edwards made a successful crossover from Soca to calypso with his show-stopping “Iron Lady”.
Hope “Empress” Serrant” delivered an emotionally charged rendition of “Hear our Cries” that touched many hearts.
In the unjudged categories, Dr. Solo was recognized as Best Overall Tent Performer. Other special awards went to De Sniper for Best Social Commentary with “Bite the Bullet”; De Snatcher for Most Humorous with “Pothole”; Ras Cantu for Most Improved, and Trinity for Spirit of Carnival with “Soca Fever”.
The newly crowned monarch took time to acknowledge those who supported her journey to the top, particularly thanking calypso veteran Queen Ivena for “training me and helping me to see that Calypso is not just about moving left to right, it’s about body language, it’s about executing the right way.”
Ge’Eve also expressed gratitude to the song’s composer and her family for their unwavering support throughout her calypso journey.
The competition was adjudicated by a panel of five esteemed judges with one alternate.
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